East Hudson Highlands Region

Trail Conference News: Volunteers have created a new trail network at Wonder Lake State Park.

The history of the Highlands is rich and colorful. It was the setting for many significant events of the American Revolution, as well as other eras in the history of the region. At the site now occupied by the Bear Mountain Bridge, a legendary chain was stretched from bank to bank to impede British advancement up the river. Benedict Arnold's headquarters were just upriver a few miles. There are remains of forts on both sides of the river, and Beacon Mountain is named for the signal fires lit at its summit by the American Militia.

Later, the region was the site of engineering marvels. Built in 1929, the Bear Mountain Bridge was, at the time, the longest suspension bridge ever created. The Catskill Aqueduct was tunneled under the Hudson River in 1912. And the Mount Beacon Incline Railway opened in 1902.

But the timeless natural beauty of the region cannot be overshadowed by its rich history or man-made achievements. From the slopes and ridges on the east side of the Hudson, spectacular panoramic views abound. If the views don't take one's breath away some of the steep and rigorous trails might.